Up Late with The Selection by Kiera Cass

For thirty- five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in a palace and compete for the heart of gorgeous Prince Maxon.

But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn’t want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she’s made for herself—and realizes that the life she’s always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.

First, I must admit that this sounded like a fictional/YA version of The Bachelor. I mean, 35 girls vying for the attention and heart of the Prince – nice! (BTW…did any of you see that horrible reality series “I Wanna Marry Harry” – The Bachelor with a Prince Harry look-a-like?)

Back to the book…on the whole Bachelor-esque premise alone, I was intrigued. (The beautiful cover pulled me in as well!) Then once I began reading the novel, I found myself not wanting to put it down. Kiera Cass has created a likable protagonist in America. In addition to that, I found myself quite liking both of her love interests. (Heck, who wouldn’t like a genuinely nice, handsome prince?!) I also appreciate that Cass added some depth to the novel with the events related to a war beyond the palace gates – not just a plot centered around girls vying for the Prince’s attention. I read the book in just two days, and immediately picked up the second novel in the trilogy. The final book in the series – The One – was released in May, and I will be reading it soon!

If you’re looking for a light and fun summer read, and if you especially enjoy a nice dose of reality competition, then this is the book for you!